Bedard: Patriots sign a 3rd FB, Cowboys Tony Fiammetta

[mgteich]

Re: Bedard: Patriots close to signing a 3rd FB, Cowboys Tony Fiammetta

???

Josh used to run the spread plus Faulk. So, the best 2012 version might be Gronkowski, Welker, Lloyd and Hernandez plus a running back.

We would have our best receivers on the field.

Who who you want as the running back picking up the blitz, as Brady's protector? Also, this running back would also need to be outlet receiver.

Faulk was perfect. But I'm not sure I want any of running backs protecting the franchise. A top fullback fill this role. A top fullback can be used in spread formations s well as being used in short yardage situations.

I preferred having one back and a spread offense. The Patriots can run out of that formation. FBs are good for the goalline. Otherwise, stay off the field.

 

[mgteich]

Re: Bedard: Patriots close to signing a 3rd FB, Cowboys Tony Fiammetta

My ideal for 5 running backs (our "norm") is as follows.

1) Ridley
2) Vareen
3) Woodhead
4) FB to be used in short yardage situations (instead of an OL) and to replace Faulk in
spread formations
5) backup veteran running back with roles to be determined

I can see your point. It seems like a direct departure from what we've been doing the last several years, going from zero FBs to 2. Here's what I think:

1. Everyone assumed (including myself) that the Pats would add a GL/SY RB to the 3 RBs we have coming back. Maybe the Pats will have 5 RBs like last season, only one or 2 will be FBs.

2. Maybe BB and Josh have decided once again to go against the prevailing wind in the NFL and bring back the running game in a serious manner this season. Ridley and Vareen have the explosive talent to each be #1 RBs, who can play all 3 downs, and Woody is solid depth. Now add a powerful FB or 2 who can catch the ball, along with a big powerful OL, and the Pats are geared up to run the ball 100 more times next season than last. This would extend the offense's time of possession, improve the play action pass game, save wear and tear on Brady and the receivers.

I still think that when all is said and done only one of those 2 FB's will remain on the roster, but if BOTH do make it, then its a sure sign that a change in the direction of the running game is about to happen. BTW- Its not going to affect the roster because we kept 5 RBs last season. Even with the 2 FBs we'd only have 5 this season as well

 

[ivanvamp]

Re: Bedard: Patriots close to signing a 3rd FB, Cowboys Tony Fiammetta

My ideal for 5 running backs (our "norm") is as follows.

1) Ridley
2) Vareen
3) Woodhead
4) FB to be used in short yardage situations (instead of an OL) and to replace Faulk in
spread formations
5) backup veteran running back with roles to be determined

Ideally, I'd like the Pats to get Matt Forte, but that assumes they can make it work under their salary cap *and* still improve the defense via the draft.

But since that set of assumptions is highly dubious, I cannot forsee Forte being here, so I'll have to settle for the real rather than the ideal.

 

[thenepatsrule]

Re: Bedard: Patriots close to signing a 3rd FB, Cowboys Tony Fiammetta

Someone needs to edit the title, he has already agreed to terms.